Management of juvenile idiopathic arthritis: Preliminary qualitative findings from the National Dental Practice-Based Research Network.

INTRODUCTION

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common chronic arthritis in childhood and represents a series of chronic inflammatory arthritides that develop before 16 years of age.

METHODS

In 2020, investigators with an interest in the management of JIA engaged the National Dental Practice-Based Research Network by conducting a preliminary qualitative questionnaire ("Quick Poll") that comprised 6 questions about JIA management.

RESULTS

A total of 604 persons responded. Results suggested that there was an interest in the management of JIA, but many clinicians did not feel that they had the necessary knowledge or experience to treat these patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The study clearly highlights a distinct gap in awareness and understanding of JIA among clinicians polled. Future work in this area should focus on education and awareness across multiple specialties, clinical guidelines for the management of JIA, and a data repository of long-term outcomes.